Indulging in the zesty embrace of citrus, the Weight Watchers Lemon Cheesecake Bars present a delectable twist on the classic cheesecake experience. Meticulously crafted to align with Weight Watchers principles, these bars seamlessly merge the richness of cheesecake with the bright allure of fresh lemons, delivering a dessert that is as guilt-free as it is delicious.

At the foundation of these bars lies a carefully balanced graham cracker crust, where reduced-fat or sugar-free alternatives bring a crumbly grace. The combination of graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a touch of sugar substitute sets the stage for the velvety layers of lemon-kissed cheesecake to follow.

The cheesecake filling, a masterpiece of reduced-fat cream cheese, sugar substitute, eggs, and the vibrant essence of lemons, unfolds into a creamy lemon bliss. With a nod to Weight Watchers’ commitment to mindful eating, this luscious layer strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutritional consciousness.

As these bars embark on their baking journey, the alchemy of the oven transforms the creamy filling into a set perfection. The edges delicately firm up, while the center maintains a tantalizing jiggle, ensuring a textural dance that tantalizes the taste buds. A short bake time at 325°F is the secret to achieving this delightful equilibrium.

Once the baking symphony concludes, the bars are granted time to chill and set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. This final step allows the flavors to meld, the texture to refine, and the lemon-infused cheesecake to achieve its peak of delectable perfection.

With each bite of these Lemon Cheesecake Bars, one can savor the wisdom of nutritional consciousness. At just 90 calories per serving and a modest profile of fats and sugars, these bars exemplify that Weight Watchers and dessert indulgence can coexist harmoniously.

In conclusion, the Weight Watchers Lemon Cheesecake Bars are a testament to the notion that culinary pleasure need not compromise wellness goals. From the crumbly graham cracker crust to the creamy lemon-infused filling, these bars stand as a celebration of flavor and mindful indulgence. Savor the tangy sweetness, revel in the creamy texture, and embrace the guilt-free joy that these bars bring to the Weight Watchers dessert repertoire.

Weight Watchers Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (use reduced-fat or sugar-free for a lighter option)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar substitute (e.g., erythritol)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 oz (2 packages) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar substitute (e.g., erythritol)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest and juice of 2 lemons

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the Crust:
    • In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar substitute. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.
  3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
    • Add sugar substitute, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Beat until well combined and smooth.
  4. Assemble and Bake:
    • Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
  6. Chill and Serve:
    • Allow the cheesecake bars to cool in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
  7. Optional:
    • Before serving, you can dust the top with a little powdered erythritol or garnish with additional lemon zest.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Values):

  • Serving Size: 1 bar (if cut into 16 bars)
  • Calories: 90
  • Total Fat: 6g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 6g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0g
    • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 3g

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used. Adjustments may be needed based on personal dietary requirements.

These Weight Watchers Lemon Cheesecake Bars offer a deliciously tangy and creamy dessert option with a focus on lighter ingredients and sensible portion sizes. Enjoy the delightful citrusy flavor guilt-free!